What Will You Explore on a Trip Along the Mekong?

Our collective wanderlust has been in suspended animation for so long, the idea of a warm beach vacation feels somewhat unreal. But don’t fret, it’s a new year, and in a couple of months time, we’ll be able to explore the world again freely. With that said, where do you plan on going once this pandemic subsides? There’s a lot of beautiful locales that we can recommend, but right now, we’ll point towards the Mekong River of Mainland Southeast Asia. 

The longest river of Southeast Asia, the Mekong is a nourishing waterway that provides food and livelihood for the many countries that live near it. A tour along its banks would be fruitful and engaging. In fact, it was even the spot for several kosher cruises in the past. Here are some highlights that you might see on a cruise along the Mekong. 

Ancient Legacies

A variety of ancient civilizations ruled the Indochinese Peninsula, and relics of their grandeur and majesty still persist amidst the verdant forests and jungles of Vietnam, Cambodia, Laos and the other countries in that part of Asia. Places like Tah Prohm and Angkor Wat, in particular, can be found near the Mekong and can be easily visited when traveling along its majestic waters. 

Wondrous Cities

Many great cities can be found on a kosher tour along the Mekong River. Gaze upon the modern beauty of Saigon, or Ho Chi Minh City. Marvel at the bountiful capital city of Phnom Penh. Explore the richness of Nong Khai. The possibilities are endless!

Beautiful Wildlife

As a center of wildlife and biodiversity, the Mekong River is the home of a multitude of unique and fascinating creatures. There’s the rare Irrawaddy dolphin, the mysterious saola, and the majestic Indochinese tiger. Despite their individual majesty, many of these creatures are part of the endangered species list, so be careful if you ever see them in the wild.

The Mekong is truly full of wonders. When you’re planning your future vacation, consider touring the Mekong River. 

Facts You Need To Know When Visiting Venice, Italy

“To build a city where it is impossible to build a city is madness in itself, but to build there one of the most elegant and grandest of cities is the madness of genius.” - Alexander Herzen

If you’re a fan of kosher riverboat cruises, we cannot help but recommend visiting the city of Venice, Italy as your next destination. Here you can marvel about the grandeur of La Serenissima, and the interesting facts and stories that its architecture and cultures tell us. Grab your map of Venice and let’s discover some wonderful facts about the Queen of the Adriatic.

No Cars Allowed in Venice

Cars are not allowed nor any wheels of any kind in the city proper, simply because the footbridges and cobbled alleyways are made for walking. The main transportations are boats - water taxis and gondolas of all sorts and shapes. But the experience is better than you think. It’s not that inconvenient once you get used to walking. Here you will discover that not worrying about cars, traffic lights, and crossing roads gives people a more relaxed pace. There’s no noise pollution and the air quality is better, which also explains the touristy and laid back atmosphere in the city. 

Venice Sinks 1-3 Milliliters/year

The city is an extremely low-lying area, with only 1 meter above elevation. The city’s vulnerable spot for flood has a lot of factors to consider, such as its geographical location, city structure, seasonal flood, and the most evident reason- effects of climate change. A fancier way to call the flooding is acqua alta, which means ‘high water’. Scientists claim that if not taken urgent action towards climate emergency, the beautiful city could go underwater by 2100.

City Stands on Wooden Planks

Venice is also known for the city’s engineering marvel, an entire group of land connected with bridges, and built atop wooden stilts! The old city structures were built around 402 A.D out of the need to create more space and accommodate new settlers. The beautiful houses and architecture you’ll see in Venice is still sitting on those 1000-year-old wood! So far, the wood was found out to be petrified over time and turned into stone.

Roads Are Narrow, Like a Maze

Thankfully the locals are used to tourists getting lost, and are probably expecting an inquiry or help on directions once or twice a day, depending on the peak tourist season. Travel forums recommend that getting lost is the best way to explore the lovely city- many unexpected corners can hold a magical view. So get away from the crowded tourists at the Piazza San Marco and explore the city’s underrated alleyways. 

Gondolas and Gondoliers

Don’t miss the Jewish cruise experience in Venice without riding on a gondola. Touring around the city with a trusted gondolier is the ultimate way to go around the city as a tourist. You can say being a gondolier is as prestigious as receiving a Michelin star - there are only 3-4 new gondoliers welcomed every year.

An adventure to the waters of the Venetian Lagoon awaits. Write it at the top of your travel list and make that trip happen!

Best Destinations For Your 2021 Kosher Trip

 Have you been dreaming of a luxurious kosher touring these last couple of months as you stayed home? Well, us, too! Thinking about the thrill of our boat setting sail, making new friends, and simply taking in the sights - it’s all truly wonderful! And it’s definitely a shame to not be on board for now.

One good thing about it, though, is that you get to thoroughly plan out for when you do get to go on your kosher vacation, and one thing we can’t stress enough is choosing the right destination for your trip.

Spain and Portugal

City of Porto

Seeing Europe for the first time? As a Jewish traveler, you’re sure to appreciate the less-known historical sites around Spain and Portugal. Set in the relaxed Mediterranean charm of the climate, explore the history of your people with amazing spots such as the World Heritage City of Porto. Here you can find the Douro region, which was home to incredible landmark events and interesting people of the Jewish faith.

French Countryside

Normandy

Want to tour Europe but are looking for more meadows and floral fields? Then you should definitely explore the timeless beauty of the French countryside, especially Normandy. It’s a wonderful seat to take in the incomparable beauty of the Seine river while also learning more about your heritage. Many history-lovers know that Normandy had a major role during World War II, and visiting the area during your kosher heritage tours is bound to enrich your faith as well as your thirst for historical knowledge.

Vietnam and Cambodia

Mekong River

Not convinced of either? Maybe you should try exploring the amazing sites of Asia. While there are literally hundreds of gorgeous and interesting sights to behold, exploring the beauty of Vietnam and Cambodia is a fantastic idea. Not only are the two countries next to each other, but each is full of awe-inspiring, well-preserved sites from a time gone by. Additionally, since these are neighboring countries, you get to enjoy a nice leisurely cruise without any hassle along the famed Mekong river.

These are just some of the captivating places you can travel to during your kosher touring. Hopefully, our suggestions can help you decide on which locale to visit on your future adventures. When you’re ready to book that cruise, feel free to go on KosherRiverCruises.com!